City awarded $1.6 million grant for Simarano Drive

By Joan F. Simoneau, Community Reporter

Marlborough – At the request of Mayor Arthur Vigeant the City Council has accepted a $1.6 million grant from the Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development (EOHED) that will provide funds for renovations and improvements on Simarano Drive.

The monies will be used to reconstruct roads, improve and add sidewalks, install traffic signals and establish a bicycle path for a “Complete Streets” project.

The grant was formally awarded to the city last year pending the approval of its $1.55 million share of the project. That portion was approved last November.? Acceptance of the grant by the council at its July 21 meeting was the last step needed for the city to advertise for bids for the massive project.

The project includes the full depth reconstruction of Simarano Drive and the addition of a near mile length of sidewalk along the road and a bicycle path, achieving the “Complete Streets” standard set by MassDOT. There will also be new traffic signals, curbing and drainage improvements, new signage, and street lighting to improve pedestrian and bicycle safety.

The mayor had advised councilors last August that the city, through his office, was “in strong pursuit of a significant grant opportunity through the MassWorks Infrastructure Program.? If awarded, the $1.2-$1.7 million award would defray the costs of reconstructing Simarano Drive,” he stated.

Councilors agreed and approved a resolution of support needed to apply for the award.

“With the arrival of both the TJX Companies and Quest Diagnostics, Simarano Drive will soon be the epicenter of the Marlborough economy,” the mayor said in making his plea.

The grant could improve the infrastructure “for the benefit of both residents and the many companies in that area,” Vigeant added.

The city is ready to bid the project and break ground by the end of August.